The maritime and insurance law community is mourning the sudden passing of Jana Byron, a highly respected maritime lawyer with more than 24 years of experience in Protection & Indemnity (P&I). Jana died unexpectedly this week, leaving her family, friends, and colleagues in deep shock.
Her sister, Katy Poats, shared the heartbreaking news in a Facebook post:
“I don’t know how else to say this… but my sister Jana Byron died unexpectedly yesterday. We are in shock and heartbroken, completely. I will share more information when we are ready, including services details etc. I’m sharing some photos from our recent sisters trip to Italy. I really want to understand why she was taken away from me, but I certainly can’t right now. I don’t have the mental capacity for more at the moment, so that’s all for now.”
A Distinguished Career in Maritime Law
Since beginning her career in 1999, Jana built an esteemed reputation in the maritime insurance sector. She specialized in handling complex P&I claims, serving both as a maritime attorney in New York and later within two of the world’s leading International Group P&I Clubs.
Most recently, Jana was based in Lockton’s Houston office, where she led the firm’s marine practice. In this role, she was known for her deep technical knowledge and client-first approach, overseeing real-time client servicing, advisory requirements, claims consulting, and liaising with Lockton’s global service and claims teams.
Her previous professional roles included serving as Senior Claims Executive, Claims Manager & Counsel at the American Steamship Owners Mutual Protection and Indemnity Association, Inc., and Senior Claims Executive with the United Kingdom Mutual Steam Ship Assurance Association. Earlier in her career, she worked as a maritime attorney at a prominent New York City maritime law firm.
Leadership and Service
Beyond her professional work, Jana was an active leader and contributor to the maritime law community. She served as Chair of the Houston Marine & Energy Insurance Conference from 2019 to 2021, sat on the Board of Directors of the Houston Mariners Club, and was a member of both the Maritime Law Association of the United States and WISTA (Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association).
Her commitment to the industry extended beyond her own practice—she was a mentor, advisor, and advocate for the next generation of maritime professionals.
Education and Credentials
Jana earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Connecticut School of Law and a B.A. in history and political science from Barnard College, Columbia University. She was admitted to the Bars of New York and Connecticut, as well as the Federal Court for the Southern District of New York and the District of Connecticut.
A Legacy of Excellence and Compassion
Colleagues remember Jana as a brilliant legal mind with a tireless work ethic, a trusted advisor who combined technical expertise with genuine care for her clients. Friends and family knew her as warm, adventurous, and deeply devoted to her loved ones. Her sudden passing leaves a void not only in her family’s life but also in the global maritime law and insurance community.
Details about memorial services will be shared by the family in due course.